Lincoln Wilton Black

Graveside services for Lincoln Wilton Black were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 6 at Greenlawn Cemetery in Farmington, N.M.

Lincoln was born Sept. 1, 1913 in Kirksville, Mo. the son of Edena Maude Messimer Black, D.O. and Albert Lincoln Black, D.O. Lincoln passed away, Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013 at Vista Grande Inn Nursing Home in Cortez at the age of 99.

In his younger days, Lincoln was a heavy equipment operator in the Northwest. In his later years Lincoln took great pride in being a Greeter for Wal-Mart in Cortez. Lincoln was a lifelong member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church and was ever faithful to his religious studies and practices.

Lincoln had a great love of gospel music and continued to play the piano and sing hymns from memory to his fellow residents at Golden Years Retirement Home in Cortez for many years. Lincoln's secret to a long life was his daily walks in the sunshine along the Golden Years path.

Lincoln is survived by his only biological child, his daughter, Viveca Branson of Alabama; his step-daughter, Sharon Williams (Toby) of Aztec, N.M.; niece, Linda Gilmore (Bob) of Esparto, Calif.; and many nieces, nephews and extended family members. Lincoln was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Talitha Black, in May 1998. Lincoln was the eldest of four siblings who all predeceased him, including his cherished sister, VeraBell Schaffer; his sister, Louise; and his brother, Albert Lincoln Black, Jr.

Memorial contributions can be made in Lincoln's name to the Rocky Mountain Conference Church of the Seventh Day Adventist at 2520 S. Downing Street; Denver, CO 80210.

Arrangements are being made through Ertel Funeral Home. For further information or to send condolences, log on to www.ertelfuneralhome.com and click on the obituary section.